Massage Advantage

Used for more than 4,000 years in many cultures, therapeutic massage is a manual manipulation of the body's soft tissue for the purpose of

• stimulating circulation, and
• promoting relaxation 

Massage is generally used for the reduction of stress and pain.  It has also been shown to boost the immune system. Since most diseases are exacerbated by stress, massage can help you become and stay healthier. A one hour massage can relieve as much stress as taking several days off from your normal routine. 
 
"Fluff and buff" is a common term that many experienced Massage Therapists use about the treatments given in some spas. It means a massage that's so light that's it's not terribly effective. For example, it's just like asking someone to scratch an itch on your back ... and they scratch a bit but they just don't get it. It can be very frustrating for a client.

This doesn't mean a good massage should hurt or feel too harsh. A good massage should feel soothing. However, if you have any areas of specific stress, 'knots' or chronic pain a deeper massage will 'get to' those areas and begin to relieve the grip and drain they have had on you. That's what you're paying for and less can well, seem like just not enough. Communication is key to insure the best massage possible. At Massage Advantage each massage begins with a brief consultation between you and your Massage Therapist to assure your purpose and expectations for the massage are met. Let your Massage Therapist know your needs. For example, if you need a relaxation or stress reduction massage this usually includes all major areas of the body. And a massage for an injury, or tightness will  focus on a specific area.